Saxophone Lessons in East Vandergrift, PA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I have been teaching lessons privately in addition to working full-time as a music teacher for more than 20 years. I enjoy making myself available as a private lesson teacher as a means of providing extra income for my family. I have remained active as a musician myself through performing both at church and with the Lonestar Symphonic Band. My passion is in instrumental music and so I left a 12-year career with the Spring Branch Independent School District where I taught elementary music in order to go to a small charter school in Katy to start a band program for them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I believe it is important for any teacher to be patient and compassionate. Every student is different in their abilities and learning processes. So I remain flexible in trying new ways to keep students engaged and not be distracted if certain techniques become difficult. Unlike a course where you receive a grade, lessons are like coaching sessions. Similar to coaching sports, consistent workouts and drills help build the foundation to perform. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching experience spans many different ensembles and levels. I have taught private students of all levels in both jazz and classical, as well as instructing collegiate jazz ensembles, collegiate saxophone quartets, high school jazz ensembles, and high school marching bands. I have been teaching private students for over two years. In private lessons, I like to emphasize music that the student enjoys most - I take pride in helping to spark my students' passion and motivation. Read More

Instruments: Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Euphonium Tuba

I am a driven player who believes ardently in the practice of fundamentals and the accuracy of intonation. I auditioned for the U.S Army Band in 2004 and spent 10 years traveling with the group. During this time, I played venues all over the world, including Japan, Korea, Germany, and Iraq among others, and learned to play many different styles of music. Since then, I have been studying with several esteemed musicians from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and I hope to impart the lessons I have learned upon my students. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My goal with my students is to tailor a specific lesson plan for that individual's musical needs. Some of my favorite books to use though are the Rubank series. I find this to be a very good book to help grasp the fundamentals of the instrument for beginning players. Once I feel they are ready then I will move them on to specific pieces that are appropriate for their skill level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I believe in meeting a student where they are. Stuffy method books and strict teaching regiments are not going to give the same results from each student. Finding music students like to play is a better way to get them excited about playing and will become an entryway into learning the more mundane parts of playing the instrument. After all, the musical concepts I want my students to learn can be found in all kinds of music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Saxophone

For beginner students, I like to start with general music understanding before jumping into the specifics. I will make sure the students can read and understand music so that when we start with harder materials it will be easier and more fun. I will make sure that the students have songs and music books that they will enjoy learning and performing. I will leave it up to the students if they wish to do a recital. Read More